Burn encircles a limb, finger, or toe
A burn that encircles a leg or arm or a finger or toe can cause problems with blood flow to the limb. The swelling in and around the burn can put pressure on the blood vessels, reducing or cutting off blood flow. The swelling can also cause increased pressure on nerves or tendons, which can affect movement.
Symptoms may also include:
- Pain that is usually severe.
- Pale skin color.
- Loss of movement.
- Numbness and tingling below the burn site.
Deep pain in a burned limb often means the burn is more serious than expected based on how the injury appears. Any increase in pain when moving the injured limb may also mean the burn is more serious.
Compartment syndrome can occur from a burn that encircles a limb and needs immediate medical evaluation.
| Author: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA | Last Updated: February 2, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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